Researchers at Kaunas University of Technology (KTU) in Lithuania have developed a groundbreaking method to convert textile waste into both alternative fuel and a high-performance cement additive—offering new sustainability pathways for two of the world’s most resource-intensive industries: textiles and construction.
The research team is examining how discarded fabrics can be repurposed into energy sources or integrated directly into cement and concrete formulations. Their work addresses critical issues such as global textile waste, industrial emissions, and the urgent need for circular economy solutions.
A Growing Textile Waste Crisis
Textile waste remains one of the hardest materials to manage worldwide. Most end-of-life garments are incinerated or sent to landfill, where they contribute to CO₂ emissions and release microplastics over time. Only a small fraction is recycled, typically into low-value products such as padding or cleaning cloths.
Complex fibre blends, dyes, and additives make recycling difficult, pushing researchers to find new, higher-value applications.
Turning Waste Textiles Into Stronger Concrete
One promising route is the use of textile waste as a cement additive. According to Dr. Raimonda Kubiliute of the KTU Faculty of Chemical Technology, the cement industry—particularly clinker production—is one of the world’s most polluting sectors.
“Researchers are actively seeking ways to reduce the amount of conventional cement in mixtures by replacing it with alternative binders or fillers,” Dr. Kubiliute explained.
KTU’s studies show strong potential. When polyester fibres from old garments were added to concrete at a 1.5% concentration, the resulting structure saw a 15–20% increase in compressive strength and improved resistance to freeze-thaw cycles.
New Fuel Sources From Discarded Clothes
Waste textiles can also be thermally treated at 300°C in an oxygen-free environment, producing carbon-rich granules suitable as alternative fuel. The remaining ash—long considered a low-value residue—proved surprisingly beneficial.
KTU research revealed that textile-derived ash can substitute up to 7.5% of Portland cement, delivering up to 16% higher compressive strength in certain curing conditions.
Read more: What is the main fuel of textile industry?
Lower Emissions, Higher Circularity
These results point to a win-win solution: reducing textile waste while cutting the carbon footprint of cement production.
“This technological solution not only reduces CO₂ emissions during cement production but also provides an environmentally friendly approach to textile waste management,” said Dr. Kubiliute.
While the use of textile waste as alternative fuel is still limited in Lithuania, awareness and interest in such applications are rising.
The findings come from the Textifuel project—“Production of Alternative Fuel from Textile Waste in Energy-Intensive Industries”—conducted in partnership between KTU and the Lithuanian Energy Institute.
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